Reverse lockout spring install method? Options

[Gudhjem]

So I pulled apart my shifter while waiting for my new linkage bushings, and am now trying to put it back together. 2 hours later I still can't get the reverse lockout springs on (IMG:style_emoticons/default/headbang.gif)

Anyone have a trick for doing this without a spring compressor or (gasp, I know) a vice? Do you do it with the guide rods that sit inside the springs in place or not?

It's a stock side shifter.

[rhodyguy]

get one end near a hole, i start on the non plate side. the spring will be bent. stick one of the pins in as far as allowed. i use a narrow putty knife for the next portion of the juggling act....start forcing the free end down. now the spring is really bent. stick the putty knife into one end coils near the plate. at this point the pin is securing the one end and the knife is giving you some control of the other. holding the pk in one hand, start trying to shove the center portion of the spring down. as the spring starts to go down in the center, push the pin in as much as you can. push down, push in, repeat. when the pin touches the pk put the circlip on the pin end. securing the spring with your thumb, pull out the pk. the spring is now full controlled by the pin and should stay put. wiggle the free spring end around to hit the hole in the detent plate and the side of the base plate. PUT THE OTHER CIRCLIP ON! the second spring will go in much easier.

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